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Arsenal’s Thomas Partey is ready to play against Real Madrid in a key Champions League game, but Jorginho will not be in the team because of injury.
PARTEY MAKES THE TRIP
Partey, the Ghanaian midfielder, was seen practicing with Arsenal right before they left for Spain. This is good news for the team, as he seemed hurt after last weekend’s game against Brentford but now looks ready to play. Partey was very important in Arsenal’s previous win against Real Madrid, using his defensive skills and accurate passes (90.4% accuracy in the Champions League this season). He has played against Real Madrid many times before with Atletico Madrid, so his experience could be very helpful in the game at the Bernabeu.
JORGINHO’S ABSENCE
Jorginho, Partey’s midfield partner, is not playing because he hurt his chest against Brentford. He did not practice on Tuesday, and reports say he might be out for several weeks. His absence means Arsenal will miss a calm and experienced player, although he was not expected to start in the game because Partey is available.
ARSENAL’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE CHASE
Arsenal has a strong 3-0 lead from the first game and is close to reaching the Champions League semifinal for the first time since 2009. Partey recently said that their team is not just going to defend their lead but is going to win. Arsenal has focused on European competitions because they are struggling in the Premier League when the title race became a possibility. However, they are comfortably in second place and seem set to shift most of their focus to the Champions League.
With a trip to the Bernabeu in front of them, Mikel Arteta’s team aims to reach the final four by finishing the job against Real Madrid, who have won the Champions League 14 times.
